The Indian women’s cricket team’s campaign at the Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 has hit a critical stage after their third consecutive loss, this time against England in Indore. Despite a strong start to the run chase, India suffered a heartbreaking four-run defeat, leaving their hopes of reaching the semifinals hanging by a thread.
Currently, India sit fourth on the points table with four points from five matches — two wins and three losses — tied with New Zealand, who trail slightly on net run rate. England’s win has sealed their semifinal berth, while Australia and South Africa have also qualified, leaving only one spot up for grabs.
How India Can Still Qualify for the Semifinals
For Harmanpreet Kaur and her squad, the road ahead is simple but steep. To keep their semifinal dreams alive, India must win both of their remaining group matches against New Zealand and Bangladesh. Doing so would take them to eight points, giving them a strong chance of advancing to the knockout stage.
If India manage to win only one of their last two games, their fate will depend heavily on New Zealand’s results. For example, if India beat New Zealand but lose to Bangladesh, they would need New Zealand to lose their final match against England — and India must ensure a superior net run rate.
India’s next clash against New Zealand is shaping up to be a virtual quarterfinal, where victory is non-negotiable. A defeat could end their semifinal hopes altogether, especially if Bangladesh pull off an upset later in the group stage.
In their latest outing, India fell just short while chasing 289 against England, finishing at 284/6. Smriti Mandhana (88) and Harmanpreet Kaur (70) fought valiantly, while Deepti Sharma (50) and Richa Ghosh (8) faltered in the tense final overs. Despite late efforts from Amanjot Kaur (18)* and *Sneh Rana (10)**, England’s disciplined bowling ensured India couldn’t cross the finish line. Earlier, Heather Knight’s 109 powered England to 288/8 in 50 overs.
As the tournament nears its climax, India’s qualification hopes rest on precise execution, smart captaincy, and a touch of luck. The next two games will decide whether the Women in Blue march into the semifinals — or bow out earlier than expected.
